Korean Holiday Calendar Navigating Closed Days

Navigating the Korean Holiday Calendar: What Travelers and Expats Need to Know About Closed Days

Welcome to South Korea, a vibrant nation where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with cutting-edge modernity. For international travelers and residents alike, understanding the Korean Holiday Calendar is not just about knowing when to celebrate; it's a critical skill for navigating closed days, planning your schedule, and truly immersing yourself in Korean life. Imagine arriving at a must-visit museum only to find it unexpectedly shut, or realizing your favorite restaurant is closed for an entire week during a major holiday. These are common scenarios for those unfamiliar with Korea's unique holiday rhythm.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with the insider knowledge needed to effortlessly manage your time in Korea, ensuring you never get caught off guard by unexpected closures. We will delve into Korea's public holiday system, highlight key annual holidays, explain their impact on daily life and services, and provide actionable strategies to maximize your experience while minimizing inconvenience. From understanding lunar calendar shifts to finding out what stays open, prepare to become a pro at navigating Korea's holiday landscape.

Understanding Korea's Public Holiday System

South Korea observes a mix of solar and lunar calendar-based holidays, which can sometimes be a source of confusion for those accustomed to a purely solar system. The government designates public holidays, impacting everything from national services to private businesses. Generally, if a public holiday falls on a weekend, the following weekday (usually Monday) is designated as a substitute holiday, extending the break. This 'substitute holiday' system ensures that everyone receives the full benefit of a public holiday.

Solar Calendar Holidays

These holidays occur on fixed dates each year, making them easy to anticipate. They often commemorate historical events or signify national pride.

• New Year's Day (January 1): A global celebration, marked in Korea with a single day off.
• Independence Movement Day (Samiljeol - March 1): Commemorates the 1919 independence movement against Japanese colonial rule.
• Children's Day (Eorininal - May 5): A day dedicated to celebrating children, often involving family outings and special events.
• Memorial Day (Hyeonchungil - June 6): Honors those who died in service of the country, observed with solemn ceremonies.
• Liberation Day (Gwangbokjeol - August 15): Celebrates Korea's liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945.
• National Foundation Day (Gaecheonjeol - October 3): Commemorates the legendary founding of the first Korean kingdom, Gojoseon.
• Hangeul Day (Hangeullal - October 9): Celebrates the creation of the Korean alphabet, Hangeul, by King Sejong the Great.
• Christmas Day (Seongtanjeol - December 25): Widely celebrated as a festive holiday, though less religious in its general observance than in Western countries.

Lunar Calendar Holidays

These are the big ones, often spanning multiple days and subject to change each year as they follow the lunar calendar. These holidays are deeply rooted in Korean tradition and family gatherings.

• Lunar New Year (Seollal): One of the two most important traditional holidays, typically falling in late January or early February. It's a three-day holiday where families gather, perform ancestral rites (charye), and eat traditional foods like rice cake soup (tteokguk).
• Buddha's Birthday (Seokgatansinil): Celebrated on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, usually in May. Temples are adorned with colorful lanterns, and parades are common.
• Korean Thanksgiving (Chuseok): The other major traditional holiday, falling on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, usually in September or October. Similar to Seollal, it's a three-day period for family reunions, ancestral rites, and feasting on harvest foods like half-moon rice cakes (songpyeon).

Table 1: Key Solar vs. Lunar Holidays

Impact of Holidays on Businesses and Services

Understanding which services are affected during specific holidays is paramount for effective planning. While many places remain open, especially during shorter solar holidays, the major lunar holidays like Seollal and Chuseok often see significant closures.

Retail and Shopping

• Department Stores and Large Malls: During major holidays like Seollal and Chuseok, many department stores (e.g., Lotte Department Store, Shinsegae Department Store) and large shopping malls (e.g., Starfield COEX Mall) will close for at least one day, typically the main holiday itself. Some might close for two days. Check their official websites or social media for exact schedules well in advance. During other solar holidays, they generally operate as usual or with slightly reduced hours.
• Traditional Markets: While some traditional markets might close entirely for a few days during Seollal and Chuseok, many often remain partially open, especially leading up to the holiday, as people flock to buy ingredients for traditional meals. Post-holiday, they usually resume normal operations quickly. During minor holidays, most operate as usual.
• Convenience Stores (e.g., GS25, CU, 7-Eleven): These are your reliable friends! Convenience stores almost always remain open 24/7, even on the biggest holidays. They are lifesavers for snacks, drinks, and emergency supplies.
• Duty-Free Shops: Located primarily in airports and major tourist districts, duty-free shops (e.g., Lotte Duty Free, Shilla Duty Free) usually operate as normal, catering to international travelers.

Food and Dining

• Restaurants (Chain vs. Independent): Major restaurant chains (e.g., fast food, large franchise restaurants) in tourist areas or bustling city centers are likely to stay open during most holidays, though they might have reduced staff or hours. Smaller, independent restaurants, especially those run by families, are much more likely to close for several days during Seollal and Chuseok to allow owners to return home and celebrate with their families. During other holidays, most operate normally.
• Cafes: Similar to chain restaurants, major cafe chains (e.g., Starbucks, Ediya Coffee, Hollys Coffee) in urban areas usually remain open. Independent cafes might close for extended periods during lunar holidays.
• Delivery Services (e.g., Baedal Minjok, Yogiyo): These services generally remain operational, but expect longer wait times and potentially fewer restaurant options, especially on the main days of Seollal and Chuseok. Some restaurants may opt out of delivery during the peak holiday season.

Transportation

• Public Transportation (Subway, Buses): Generally, urban public transport systems (subways in Seoul, Busan, etc., and city buses) operate throughout all public holidays, often on a modified, weekend schedule. This is crucial as intercity travel peaks.
• Intercity Transportation (Trains, Express Buses, Flights): This is where major disruption occurs during Seollal and Chuseok. Tickets for KTX trains, intercity express buses, and domestic flights sell out weeks or even months in advance. Prices might also surge. If you plan to travel domestically during these periods, book your tickets as soon as they become available. Road traffic can also be extremely heavy, turning a short drive into an hours-long ordeal.
• Taxis: Taxis are usually available, but demand is extremely high during major holidays, especially late at night or around transport hubs. Expect surge pricing or longer waits through ride-hailing apps.

Financial Services and Public Offices

• Banks: All banks (e.g., KB Kookmin, Shinhan, Woori, Hana) are closed on all public holidays. Plan your banking needs accordingly, ensuring you have enough cash or utilize ATM services before the holiday.
• ATMs: ATMs are generally operational 24/7, even on holidays, but they might run out of cash faster in high-traffic areas.
• Immigration Offices: Immigration offices and other government agencies are strictly closed on all public holidays. If your visa or permit has a deadline falling on or near a holiday, make sure to complete your application well in advance.

Tourist Attractions and Entertainment

• Palaces and Museums: Major national palaces (e.g., Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung), national museums (e.g., National Museum of Korea), and art galleries often have special holiday operating hours. Some might close for one or two days during Seollal and Chuseok, while others might offer free admission or special events. Always check their official websites for the most up-to-date information.
• Amusement Parks (e.g., Lotte World, Everland): These popular attractions typically remain open, as holidays are peak times for families. They might even extend their operating hours. However, expect massive crowds.
• Theaters and Cinemas: Cinemas and performance venues usually remain open and often release new films or shows during holidays to attract audiences.
• Libraries: Public libraries are generally closed on all public holidays.

Table 2: Typical Closures by Service Type During Major Holidays (Seollal & Chuseok)

Strategies for Navigating Closed Days

With a little planning, you can easily navigate Korea's holidays without a hitch.

Plan Ahead with Official Calendars

• Government Websites: Always consult official government websites (e.g., Korea Tourism Organization, Ministry of Personnel Management) for the most accurate list of public holidays, including substitute holidays. These are typically released well in advance.
• Online Calendars: Integrate a Korean public holiday calendar into your personal digital calendar (Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar). Many expat communities also share updated holiday information.

Utilize Online Resources and Apps

• Official Tourist Information: Websites like VisitKorea.or.kr often publish articles specifically detailing holiday operating hours for major attractions and services.
• Social Media: Follow official accounts of places you plan to visit (museums, amusement parks, shopping malls). They frequently post holiday schedules and announcements.
• Naver Maps / Kakao Maps: These local mapping apps often display real-time business hours. While not always updated for specific holiday exceptions, they are a good starting point. You can also search for "open" or "holiday hours" (e.g., "설날 영업시간" for Seollal opening hours, though you'll be using English here, searching in English still helps).
• Expat Forums and Groups: Online communities (Facebook groups for expats in Seoul/Korea, Reddit r/Korea) are excellent resources for asking specific questions and getting real-time updates from others navigating the same situation.

Essential Tips for Travelers

• Book Accommodation Early: During major holidays, especially Seollal and Chuseok, popular tourist destinations and even city hotels can book up quickly. Secure your lodging well in advance.
• Stock Up on Necessities: Before multi-day lunar holidays, ensure you have any specific groceries, medications, or personal items you might need. While convenience stores are open, specialized items might be hard to find.
• Embrace the Holiday Spirit: Instead of fighting the crowds or lamenting closures, try to participate in the holiday spirit. Many cultural centers and tourist spots offer special holiday programs (e.g., traditional games during Seollal, craft workshops). Look for "Hanok Village" areas (e.g., Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, Jeonju Hanok Village) which often have special activities.
• Enjoy Less Crowded City Centers: Counter-intuitively, major cities like Seoul can feel surprisingly quiet during Seollal and Chuseok as many residents travel to their hometowns. This can be a unique opportunity to explore typically crowded areas with fewer people, though some shops will be closed.

Insider Knowledge for Expats

• Visa/Immigration Deadlines: Reiterate the importance of submitting any immigration-related documents well before a holiday. Korean government offices are very strict about deadlines.
• School Closures: International schools and Korean schools will adhere to the public holiday calendar, often including additional days off around major lunar holidays. Plan childcare or activities accordingly.
• Utilities and Services: While essential services like electricity and water are unaffected, non-urgent maintenance or customer service for internet providers might be delayed during long holidays.
• Cultural Immersion: Many expats use these long breaks to travel within Korea or to neighboring countries. For those staying, it's a fantastic chance to experience local festivals or simply enjoy the peace of a quiet city. Consider visiting a temple during Buddha's Birthday for a unique cultural experience.

Maximizing Your Korean Holiday Experience

Don't let the idea of closed days deter you. Holidays in Korea offer unique opportunities for cultural immersion and different kinds of experiences.

Participate in Local Festivities

Many public holidays are accompanied by special events.

• Lantern Festival (Yeondeunghoe) for Buddha's Birthday: If you're in Korea during Buddha's Birthday, attending the Lotus Lantern Festival in Seoul is a must-do. Thousands of vibrant lanterns illuminate the streets and temples, culminating in a grand parade. Check the official festival website for dates and routes.
• Royal Palace Activities: During Seollal and Chuseok, the five Grand Palaces in Seoul often hold traditional performances, folk games, and offer free entry to visitors wearing traditional Korean clothing (Hanbok). This is a fantastic photo opportunity and a deep dive into Korea's heritage.
• Local Festivals: Beyond national holidays, Korea has numerous regional festivals throughout the year (e.g., Boryeong Mud Festival, Busan International Film Festival, Jinju Lantern Festival). Combine your holiday planning with these local events for a richer experience.

Exploring Less Affected Areas

While city centers might have closures, some areas thrive during holidays.

• Mountains and National Parks: Hiking is a national pastime in Korea. National parks (e.g., Bukhansan near Seoul, Seoraksan) and local mountains are almost always open and bustling with hikers, especially during pleasant weather holidays. Pack a lunch and enjoy nature.
• Coastal Towns: Coastal cities like Busan, Sokcho, or Jeju Island remain popular destinations. While specific shops might close, the beaches, seafood markets (many stay open, especially the larger ones), and scenic attractions continue to operate.
• Themed Cafes and Entertainment Districts: Areas known for their specific themes (e.g., Hongdae for arts and indie music, Itaewon for international cuisine and nightlife) often have a higher concentration of businesses that remain open, catering to a diverse crowd.

Table 3: Recommended Online Resources for Holiday Planning

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are all businesses closed during Seollal and Chuseok? A1: No, not all businesses close. While many small, independent shops and family-run restaurants do close, large department stores, major chain restaurants, convenience stores, and tourist attractions (like amusement parks) often remain open, sometimes with adjusted hours. Public transportation operates, usually on a weekend schedule.

Q2: How far in advance should I book intercity train tickets for major holidays? A2: For KTX trains and express buses during Seollal and Chuseok, it is highly recommended to book tickets as soon as they become available, which is often 3-4 weeks in advance. They sell out extremely quickly due to high demand for family travel.

Q3: What's the best way to get around cities during holidays if I don't have a car? A3: Public transportation (subway and buses) within major cities generally operates on a weekend schedule during holidays and is your most reliable option. Taxis are available but can be in high demand, leading to longer waits.

Q4: Will banks be open on any public holidays? A4: No, banks in South Korea are closed on all official public holidays. Ensure you handle any essential banking needs, such as withdrawing cash or making transfers, before the holiday period. ATMs are generally operational, but it's wise to have some cash on hand.

Q5: What are some good activities to do if I'm in Korea during a major holiday and many places are closed? A5: You can explore nature by hiking in national parks, visit temples (especially during Buddha's Birthday), or seek out areas known for entertainment like Hongdae or Itaewon, which often have many open establishments. Look for special holiday events at palaces or cultural centers, which often cater to tourists and those staying in the city. Also, convenience stores are always open for snacks and drinks!

Conclusion: Embrace the Rhythm of Korea's Holidays

Navigating the Korean Holiday Calendar and closed days might seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge and a little proactive planning, it becomes an integral and enriching part of your experience in Korea. Far from being an inconvenience, these holidays offer a unique window into Korean culture, traditions, and the strong emphasis on family.

By checking official schedules, leveraging online resources, and preparing for potential closures, you can not only avoid frustrations but also discover new ways to enjoy your time. Whether you choose to participate in vibrant festivals, explore a quieter city, or simply stock up and relax, understanding Korea's holidays empowers you to make the most of every moment. So, mark your calendars, plan your adventures, and get ready to truly live and travel like a local in the dynamic land of morning calm.

For more insights into living in Korea, from finding the best local eats to understanding the visa process, be sure to check out our other guides on the Korea Experience Team blog!